One position targets researchers who creatively explore biodiversity science using mathematical, statistical, and/or computational tools, at scales from single species to entire communities and biogeographical realms. The other position is more broadly defined, and we welcome candidates with strong empirical (field, lab, or comparative) and applied research dimensions in biodiversity science, working in terrestrial, freshwater, marine, or coastal ecosystems. Successful candidates must have obtained a Ph.D. in biological sciences, mathematics, statistics, or a related field, and will be expected to have an internationally recognized research program and contribute to training and education in biodiversity science.
These hires are part of a new Biodiversity Initiative launched by the University of Florida, a campus-wide initiative bridging multiple units (and including the establishment of a Biodiversity Institute), and aiming at fostering collaborations among scientists, students, resource managers, and policy analysts, formulating strategies to meet the biodiversity challenges of the 21st century and beyond. Such strategic questions include gauging the effects on biodiversity, ecosystem processes, emerging diseases, and resource sustainability of factors such as climate change, sea level rise, invasive species, and environmental degradation.
The University of Florida is uniquely positioned to take a leadership role in biodiversity science, capitalizing on its status as a land grant, sea grant, and space grant university, with the most comprehensive academic health center in the Southeastern US. The Biodiversity Initiative will leverage extraordinary data resources and computing power (including one of the most powerful university supercomputers), one of the nation’s largest natural history museums, and a strong collaborative culture across disciplines. Applications must be submitted via the full job adand must include: (1) a letter summarizing the applicant's qualifications, ongoing research directions, and interests in the Department, (2) a complete curriculum vitae, and (3) names and contact information for three references. Applications will be reviewed beginning August 22, 2016 as received and the position will remain open until filled. Questions about these positions may be emailed to Jeremy Lichstein (jlichstein@ufl.edu) with subject “BIODIVERSITY SEARCH”.
